Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates supporters were hit by another transfer shocker this weekend.
Monnapule Saleng was suddenly announced at Chloorkop after spending the first half of the season on loan at Orbit College FC.
Saleng’s dramatic move to Kabo Yellow is reminiscent of six similar transfer moves in the Premier Soccer League era.
SEVEN PLAYERS’ MOVES TO MAMELODI SUNDOWNS FROM ORLANDO PIRATES
Tyren Arendse (2006)
The former winger/attacking midfielder arrived at Kabo Yellow aged 25. His career at Chloorkop was undoubtedly a flop move.
The Elsies River-raised legend ended up returning to Santos to revive his career.
Gift Leremi (2007)
A powerful and speedy winger, Leremi left the Orlando Pirates just as his career was peaking at 22. His spell at Mamelodi Sundowns was just coming into life, but was cut short by a tragic death in a car accident.
Lebohang “Cheeseboy” Mokoena (2009)
Another Orlando Pirates academy graduate and Leremi’s best friend. The enterprising winger, like Arendse and many more after him, fell short of the game time competition at Mamelodi Sundowns.
Innocent Mdledle (2009)
The burly left-back moved very shortly after Mokoena. His talent was unquestionable, but he sadly lost his career to alcoholism.
TEKO MODISE (2011)
The most explosive transfer of them all. Modise left Orlando Pirates under difficult circumstances and reinvented himself at Mamelodi Sundowns, becoming a club legend with the CAF Champions League title and two league gold medals.
Oupa Manyisa (2017)
A Buccaneers captain and midfield general. His leadership and legendary status in Soweto left Orlando Pirates supporters stunned and broken. Manyisa hardly came near Mamelodi Sundowns’ starting team.
Thembinkosi Lorch (2024)
An enforced deadline-day January deal that came at the cost of former coach Rulani Mokwena’s job at the club.
The Bloemfontein-born star scored seven goals and made four assists in 26 games before moving to Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca.
Monnapule Saleng (2026)
The newest story. Saleng’s career in the big time seemed done and dusted. He spent the first half of the season on loan at Betway Premiership newcomers Orbit.
After two goals and three assists in 11 games, Mamelodi Sundowns suddenly announced the signing of the 27-year-old from Orlando Pirates.